Wednesday, 12 November 2014

Hammam Spa, Publika, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Hammam Entrance in Publika

Hammam Spa, Publika

The art of bathing has long been a tradition in Arabic
culture. The practice of body purification and cleansing oft involved the whole
family, friends and even business associates. The hammam or bathhouse was a
place to converse, build community, and unwind. Hammam Spa brings this ancient
ritual to Kuala Lumpur in their beautiful Moroccan version of a bathhouse.
While not often used by the large groups of days gone by, Hammam certainly
draws a crowd: whether it be individual, couples, or a group of friends, the
custom of cleansing and pampering is rejoiced by all who choose to visit.

Reception

Fresh Orchids Decorate the Reception

The spa is embraced by Moroccan design. From labyrinthine
mosaics in shades of blue, green and ochre, to carved cedar woodwork and metallic
trimmings, the air of another time and place permeates the entire setting.
Fountains offer visual and aural stimulation, and warm light glows from copper
lanterns adding to the welcoming appeal. Hammam is so distinct from the daily
humdrum, that it encourages unplugging from the outside world and
transportation of mind and spirit to another era and location.

Lounge

It’s not only the interiors that are birthed from
Mediterranean heritage, treatments too draw from ancestral wisdom with both
therapists and beauty rituals hailing from Morocco.

In the Hallways

We engage in the Royal Couple Hammam (RM688), which involves
three hours of absolute pampering. Every single detail is taken care of by Hammam
therapists, and we truly feel regal throughout the entire experience.

Relaxation Area

Beginning with the Hammam and Gommage we’re escorted to the
warm bathing room. Tiled floors, walls and benches, are heated by hidden copper
piping, keeping the temperature of the room comfortable throughout the washing.
Running water streams from the sink, and the session begins with buckets being
gently tumbled over our hair and bodies. Next a black olive oil soap is
smoothed over our skin from neck to toe and we’re left to luxuriate in the
warmth for 15 minutes.

Relaxation Area

The therapists return, and, with our skin now ready, it’s
time for the exfoliation. Using a coarse mitten, our bodies are given a good
scrubbing, leaving no nook or cranny unexamined. We see evidence of the work in
waves of refuse on the floor, and learn that most people lose between 25 – 75 grams
of dead skin cells in a regular visit! More water is poured over our consenting
frames followed by a volcanic mask, serving to moisturize, soften and tighten
the pores. Again we’re left alone for about 15 minutes and can’t help but nod in
and out of consciousness in the toasty humid air.

Where the Bathing Takes Place

Hygiene is exemplary and we take note as the therapists make
a display of cutting the exfoliation mittens and disposable underwear after
treatment, showing that each is only used once. Luxurious amounts of water are
doused over our figures again and this time a rosemary shampoo and shower gel
is used to wash off any excess product. Our skin feels velvety, and our
fingertips are just starting to show signs of wrinkling, so timing is perfect
to move on.

Lockers

The gentle-natured Moroccan ladies dry us off, wrapping our
hair in a light towel and dress us in robes. Ushered to a bed draped with sheer
curtains and fed gorgeously creamy, flaky and sweet baklava bites and Moroccan
tea, we feel like endeared sovereigns of State.

Couple's Relaxation Area

Moorish Body Polish complete, the indulgence continues with
an Aromatic Massage of 75 minutes. Four scented oils are for the choosing. The
Pamper Mousse with a light citrus aroma is said to assist with slimming and
detoxification of the body’s system, and appeals to both of us. Our Malaysian
masseuses are skilled experts in their trade. Kneading away deep into our
muscles with long profound strokes, we’re soon lulled into a state of
semi-awareness and before we know it, we’re gently brought back to wakefulness
and left with the final cosseting of the Royal Couple Hammam package.

The experience at Hammam Spa is one of the most unique we’ve
had to date. Both hubby and I are enamoured with the setting, therapists and
quality of treatment, and highly recommend it to everyone yearning for some
pampering and tender-hearted care.

The most popular treatments at the spa are the Hammam & Gommage (RM150) and My Favourite Concubine (RM315). They also offer "mother and daughter" pamper sessions.